Key Points
- Australia will introduced a direct pathway for New Zealand citizens to apply for Australian citizenship beginning 1 July 2023
Overview
The government of Australia introduced a direct pathway for New Zealand citizens to apply for Australian citizenship beginning 1 July 2023.
Eligible applicants include New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for the past four years or more and who have held permanent residence status for a period of at least 12 months.
Holders of Special Category visas (SCV) who arrived in Australia after 26 February 2001 will be automatically considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes. New Zealand citizens granted an SCV before 1 July 2022 will have the period of permanent residence for citizenship purposes backdated to 1 July 2022.
These measures will also apply to New Zealand citizens currently residing overseas but who held a valid SCV when they last left Australia. For further information on eligibility under these new measures, check here.
What are the Changes?
The government of Australia introduced new pathways for citizenship for citizens of New Zealand. According to the government announcement, these measures reflect Australia’s close ties with New Zealand and highlight the positive contribution that New Zealand citizens make to Australia.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Australia’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
